Preliminary studies on nanocomposite based on high quality Silicon Carbide nanofibers

Nanocomposites are nowadays the most promising new materials due to their unique properties (such as high mechanical strength, chemical and thermal resistance). The nanocomposite matrix is blended with a nanostructured filler. In this study, Silicon Carbide nanofibers (NFSiC) and their bundles were tested as a reinforcement of two epoxy resins: EPIKOTE 828 and EL 20. PAP-4 (33 phr) and P-900 (40 phr) were used as hardeners in the two cases, respectively. Several samples were prepared in the range between 0.1 and 5 % wt for both types of resins and fillers (NFSiC and NFSiC bundles). Mechanical and electrical properties were tested. The fillers were obtained using a new simple, fast, low-cost and efficient method to synthesize nanomaterials: Self-propagating High-Temperature Synthesis (SHS). The produced nanofillers were analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Trasmission Electron Microscope (TEM). They were purified, as well. The nanocomposites obtained using such nanofillers were assayed by SEM and TEM techniques. © 2012 IEEE.